Ep 5. It's the Inside That Counts

In the fifth episode of Holiday Baking Championship season 7, titled "It's the Inside That Counts," the remaining bakers are challenged to create desserts with surprise fillings. Host Jesse Palmer and judges Nancy Fuller, Duff Goldman, and Carla Hall welcome the contestants into the kitchen and explain that for this challenge, the inside of the dessert is just as important as the outside.

The bakers have 90 minutes to create two different desserts, each with a different surprise filling. While some contestants stick to traditional flavors like chocolate and caramel, others take a more creative approach, using ingredients like matcha and lavender.

As the bakers work, the judges look on and offer their feedback, pointing out areas where the contestants could improve. Some of the bakers struggle with getting their fillings just right, while others have trouble with the presentation of their desserts.

In the end, the judges taste each dessert and offer their critiques. They are looking for desserts with perfectly executed surprise fillings and a balance of flavors and textures. Some of the bakers nail it, while others fall short.

The contestant with the best overall performance in the challenge is awarded the Star Baker title, while the one who falls short is sent home. As always, tensions are high as the bakers wait to hear their fate, but in the end, it's all about the delicious desserts.